Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Many of these issues are fixable.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is a simple, inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off relatively quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good shape.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are on the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house where warm air collides with cold glass, which turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows as required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will become degraded over time and allow cool air to move between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long it may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of sealed blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it can often be solved. Normally, this involves creating a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.
You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and tell them of any issues immediately you notice them. Make sure to put this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some instances the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. It is always best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging services that involve putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clean. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog may return.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and is a great option when you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be sure that your investment will produce the best results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.